The rich rural scenery of North Fife, Scotland, provides variety from the historic city of St Andrews and the quaint harbours of the East Neuk of Fife. A Royal Palace in Falkland, a Folk Museum in Ceres, a National Trust Mansion House near Cupar, Balmerino Abbey, Lindores Abbey, Newburgh, Dunbog, Glenduckie, Creich, Birkhill, Ballinbreich, Abdie, Upper Flisk and more in beautiful North East Fife. Also the occasional wander.

Sunday, September 28, 2008

William McGonagall wrote frequently of The Silvery Tay, living in Dundee one cannot escape its presence and qualities. How he would have poetically used golden reflections is hard to know, a sight not seen from Dundee. He had a reputation of being the worlds worst poet, so bad that he is loved by some. Billy Connelly falls into this category using material from McGonagall in his stand up comedy.

William McGonagall was known as the Greatest Bad Verse Writer of his age, but was sustained throughout his career as by an invincible belief in his own genius. 'The Tay Bridge Disaster', 'Death of Lord and Lady Dalhousie', and 'Attempted Assassination of the Queen' all passed into recorded Victorian literature and are reproduced in this collection. McGonagall was unrecognised in his own lifetime, but how has many thousands of admirers around the world - including Billy Connelly, who has written an affectionate introduction to the anthology.Poetic Gems (Duckbacks) .

Thursday, September 25, 2008

Driving from Collessie to Monimail North Fife to Monimail Tower and a view of the walled garden which sustains the community with organically grown vegetables and fruit.

The Monimail Tower Project is an environmental organisation that promotes organic gardening and provides a haven for people suffering from stress. It has a small group of residents, and occupies a wonderful site six miles west of Cupar consisting of four acres of walled gardens, 12 acres of woodland and a renovated 15th- or 16th-century tower. The tower has a historical exhibition plus magnificent views from the roof. Anyone is welcome at any sociable hour.

A hamlet in North Fife, Monimail lies on the northern edge of the Howe of Fife on a minor road between the villages of Collessie and Letham. "Howe" is the name given to the fertile farming area of central Fife in the valley of the River Eden between Strathmiglo and Cupar. The term "Howe" is derived from an old Scots word meaning a hollow, valley or flat tract of land.

Monimail once had a meal mill, smithy and brewhouse, but its origin is probably closely associated with a precursor of Monimail Tower (1578), a residence of the Bishops of St Andrews. The last cleric to reside here was Archbishop Hamilton who allegedly was cured of asthma by the Italian astrologer Cardan who advised him to drink water from a well nearby now known as Cardan's Well. The tower is incorporated into the garden wall of Melville House which was built between 1697 and 1703 by the 1st Earl of Melville to a design by James Smith. Monimail Parish Church (1794-97) has a four-stage Gothic tower built in 1811 by R. Hutchison.

The top of the spiral stone stairs to the roof. As you can see the stairs continue up, to heaven maybe?

An example of a apple tree on the south facing wall.

In keeping with the ethos of the community, push bikes are a preferred mode for local transport.

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Arbroath Smokies, Cupar Farmers Market. A huge favourite local and national food. If you like fish, fresh fish, freshly smoked fish then you would die to enjoy a warm pair of smokies. North Sea Haddock cooked in a traditional way over smouldering hardwood. One of the many stalls at Cupar Farmers Market in North Fife.

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Rowan Berries North Fife. What an amazing and bountiful crop at hand to gather for those who appreciate the supportive qualities. The berries are high in vitamin C and other beneficial aspects. To eat as jam or as an accompaniment to cooked meets, hot or cold, try:-

Pick over the rowan berries, removing any stalks, wash if necessary, drying well.Wash the whole crab apples, removing any bruised parts.Place the fruit and just enough water to cover into a heavy bottomed saucepan.Bring to the boil and simmer, covered for 20 - 25 minutes, until tender.Strain through a jelly bag or muslin cloth, allow about 4 hours for this, do not squeeze as this will cause the jelly to become cloudy.Measure the volume of the liquid, add 450g (1lb) of sugar for each pint (600ml) of liquid.Place the sugar in an ovenproof bowl and put it in the centre of a pre-heated oven for 10 - 15 minutes.Place the juice back into a heavy bottomed saucepan, add the sugar, stirring until fully dissolved.Bring to the boil and cook rapidly for 10 - 15 minutes until the setting point is reached.Skim the surface if necessary, allow to cool slightly then pot but only slightly. Near fill the jars, screw on the lid and invert. The resultant vacuum keeps the jelly free of mould organisms.

The Rowan, long associated with the Druidic thought. Tree of Imbolc, Divine Inspiration and Seership. In the tradition of Marion Zimmer Bradley's Mists of Avalon, Ellen Evert Hopman weaves Druid history and spirituality into an engaging love story. This Bardic teaching tale is set in a fictional third-century Ireland when Christianity is sweeping across the Celtic Isles. During this time of crisis, love blooms between Ethne, a Druid healer, and her patient, a Fennid warrior. Their passionate affair suffers a tragic blow when Ethne is called upon to become the high queen.Priestess of the Forest: A Druid Novel .

Told from the Druid perspective, Hopman recreates the daily life, magical practices, politics, and spiritual lives of the ancient Celts during this historic turning point. Druid holy days, rites, rituals, herbal lore, and more are brought to life in this Celtic fantasy—illuminating Druidic teachings and cultural wisdom.

About the AuthorEllen Evert Hopman (Massachusetts) has been active in American Druidism since 1984. She is co-chief of the Order of the Whiteoak (Ord na Darach Gile), a popular author of Druidry-related titles, and a master herbalist. She teaches at the Grey School of Wizardry and has contributed to several Pagan journals. Priestess of the Forest: A Druid Novel.

Rowan Trees West Port Newburgh, North Fife. The Rowan tree has much folk law, superstition and association with Celt, Druid and neo-paganism. Here in Newburgh, is an example of placement each side of the entrance to a home.

The Rowan (sorbus aucuparia), Mountain Ash, Quickbeam, has the ability, perhaps more than any other tree, to help us increase our psychic abilities and connections. It has a beneficial energy which will increase our abilities to receive visions and insights which in turn will increase our communication with the spirit realms.

In the past it was valued as a protection against enchantment, unwanted influences and evil spirits. Sprigs of Rowan were placed over doorways and fixed to cattle sheds to protect the animals from harm. Similarly, farmers would drive their sheep through hoops of Rowan branches, and in Wales Rowan trees were planted in churchyards to watch over and protect the spirits of the dead.

The Rowan berry has a tiny five-pointed star opposite its stalk. The pentagram, ancient symbol of protection, is an outward manifestation of the Rowan's protective powers, but there is more to the picture than this. The Rowan grows higher up the sides of mountains than any other native tree, often sprouting and growing from the tiniest of crevices and growing in the most inaccessible of spots. Its life-force energy is strong and determined. It reflects a power, a vitality and tenacity, with a clear message that harnessing this powerful life-force will make any manifestation possible. Its message is not to give up, but to hold on strong to what you believe in and to the power of the life-force.

"This is a lively, sensible and careful attempt to make sense of some very confusing, and yet important, areas of modern thought. I particularly like the clear style and the attention that the author gives to parts of the historical background which are usually misunderstood. The book should interest a wide audience". --Mary Midgley, philosopher, author of Science as Salvation and many other works.

Living With Honour is a provocative and uncompromising exploration of how Paganism can provide the philosophical guidance to live honorably in a twenty-first Western society. Part One explores the history of Paganism, its undercurrents of anarchy, heresy, environmentalism and animism, finding its place within the history of Western philosophy. Part Two addresses key moral issues from that animistic perspective, beginning with the foundation of human relationships and attitudes towards the Other. It book explores how we value life, and firstly human life, looking at dying, suicide and euthanasia, birth, abortion and IVF. It then examines the human abuse of nonhuman animals, discussing sentience, personhood and inherent value. Finally, it focuses on current global crises, exploring need as opposed to desire. Living with Honour: A Pagan Ethics.

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Garden Snails North Fife, these wee specimens were tonight on our house entrance wall, over the years snails have provided food for song thrushes which now are less prevalent causing a rise in snail population. Now we keep ducks snails are no longer a garden plant problem. When one feeds ducks they will notice what has been tossed to them and gobbled up after inspection on the ground. Snails, snapped up mid air before they reach the ground. A while ago in times of being duck-less and without thrushes I have thrown snails across the road into the adjacent field, recently there was a noise at the door and on opening there was nobody there, peering down there was this snail, and a little voice said "what was all that about".

Sunday, September 14, 2008

Ballinbreich to Balhelvie. Travelling east along the boundry road from Newburgh North Fife. Starting at Ballinbreich with woods to the right, past Logie farm on the left, along past Brunton and Luthrie turn on the right, Flisk school house left and arrival at Balhelvie farm cottages

Saturday, September 13, 2008

Offers Over£ 135,000 Charming Cottage In Sought-After Village Location!RE/MAX Professionals are delighted to bring to the market this 1900’s attractive stone built Semi-Detached Cottage well placed within the sought-after Village of Freuchie. This well laid out spacious accommodation comprises: entrance vestibule, lounge, dining area, modern fitted kitchen, 2 double bedrooms and family bathroom. Gas Heating. Gardens to front and rear. Early viewing recommend to fully appreciate this property! Don’t delay and call Agnes on 01334 659 111.

SITUATIONFreuchie is one of the most picturesque villages of Fife combining rustic and historic charm with everyday modern conveniences. There is easy access to local amenities including the Kingdom Shopping Centre in Glenrothes as well as Perth, Dundee and St Andrews, and for the commuter the A92 allows swift access to Edinburgh and a rail network system leading to all parts of Fife and outlying areas.

Friday, September 12, 2008

Traditional Cottage In Auchtermuchty, a sought-after Village Location North Fife.

Offers Over£ 189,500 RE/MAX Professionals are delighted to bring to the market this traditional stone built Cottage which has been lovingly restored and extended to incorporate ‘The Weavers Cottage’ to the rear of the property. The property has retained many of its original features and is simply a must to view! The accommodation comprises: entrance vestibule, family room/dining room, separate WC, breakfasting kitchen with built in appliances, formal lounge, master bedroom with en-suite shower room situated on the ground floor, on the first floor there are 2 further double bedrooms, large family bathroom, larger-than-average country style garden to rear with views overlooking open countryside. Double glazing. Gas heating. Early viewing is highly recommended to appreciate this rarely available property. To arrange to view then please call Agnes Brook on 01334 659 111.

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Honeysuckle, this plant forms part of the roadside hedge of my garden with also Lonicera Nitida amongst others. This creamy coloured honeysuckle begins to flower in May and is still in flower today providing nectar to many day and night flying insects.

Monday, September 08, 2008

This marsh plant, actually an Iris resides on the edge of the garden pond here at Flisk in North Fife. It has a similar energy to the posted plant below. Much softer and succulent of course being at home in a moist atmosphere contrasted with the arid requirements of the below.

Exotic plant North Fife. It hasn't been the weather for ambling outside. I was struck by this non-native plant in a Newburgh friend's garden. A really spiky thrusting plant contrasted by the soft green rambling foliage in the background, backlit by the sun and pelted by rain as we sheltered in a doorway.

Sadly, keeping ducks is not such a straight forward happening as one might first suppose. This dead duckling was the last, (I hope casualty) of local predation. We have protected them from ground attack, foxes, minks, weasels, dogs, cats and bugger me it came from the sky in the form of sparrow hawks. You may see from earlier posts that there were five ducklings, now only one remains. This particular one was observed to be taken and seen to be dropped in the barley field adjacent, although rescued it did not recover from injuries and trauma sustained.

Well this is the culprit and yes they have to live too. Our sitting ducks will have better protection from now on.

Thursday, September 04, 2008

Natural Testosterone.Amazon alerted me to this book today and I'm happy to post it on. As we become older, relatively less able, balance in all senses needs mindful maintenance. For the mind, good meditation practice or being able to really relax. For the body, a clean healthy balanced diet in a nutritional sense. At my age I have had need to explore what is available, NHS pharmaceuticals and natural phytogenic produce. The phyto wins hands down, softer and more subtle but effective with the plus of no detrimental side effects. This is of the book. How to maintain optimum testosterone levels for the male body through the use of herbs, nutritional supplements, and diet• Explains the phenomenon of andropause--male menopause--and how to deal with it• Reveals scientific evidence of testosterone-blocking agents in the environment that alter men’s essential chemistry as they age• Presents safe, organic plant medicines that can restore optimum testosterone levels• Contains the most up-to-date natural treatments for impotence, infertility, and prostate disease.

The recognition of the middle-age stage in male development of andropause, which is comparable to women’s menopause, is hampered by the lack of a clear understanding of the chemistry and physiology specific to aging men. Men are still capable of reproduction well into and beyond middle age. Yet a man’s sexual desire and potency varies, often according to his testosterone level. Recent studies show that the lowered testosterone levels endemic in aging men--the gradual drop that is quite normal--is being exacerbated by environmental agents. Testosterone-blocking estrogen agents are present in insecticides, industrial materials, pharmaceuticals, and foods. Men are daily inundated with a “cocktail” of estrogen agents that alter the fine balance of testosterone that makes them male.

In The Natural Testosterone Plan, Stephen Harrod Buhner shows why men need help to maintain their testosterone levels as they age and explains how safe, naturally occurring phytoandrogens--plant medicines that contain male hormones--can remedy the depletion exerted by the environment. Buhner details how each phytoandrogen works, when its use is indicated, and the most appropriate method of application.Natural Testosterone Plan . I haven't read this book but am familiar with the subject through my own empirical experience. Now! When one is in balance, hormone levels proper, then one feels good, libido brimming accompanied automatically with a sense of happiness. This happiness radiates joy, what else do you want to do in life?Currently I indulge in.Tribulus Terrestris.Ginkgo Biloba.Turnera diffusaSerenoa serrulataWith the exception of Tribulus as tinctures.Outcome, a smile on my face. If you are where I am in life you may find it a pleasant rebirth.

Wednesday, September 03, 2008

Crossgates Cupar North Fife.Market or Merket (in Scots) at the heart of Cupar North Fife Scotland. In the roadway on the left front you may be able to make out, if you click to enlarge, embedded stones marking the site where the cross once stood, it was moved to where the video was shot from to allow balanced movement of modern road traffic.

Monday, September 01, 2008

Rain fall over Dundee as seen from North Fife over The River Tay tonight. Not an unusual sight this year or anywhere in Scotland and in so many other places in the world. My garden pond is brimming, fantastic but this is only ground water, therefore the surrounding ground must be saturated. The post below illustrates the flooded marsh of a pond. What to do?

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About Me

In 1979 I moved To North Fife from the Borders originally for a year, became captivated and have loved being here ever since. In a word magic. The climate, peoples, environment, air. views, All is quite wonderful and maybe on my blog you too can get a feel of that and enjoy too. I am art and craft trained from 11 years old leading me to photography/giclee printing from my studio in The Steeple Newburgh North Fife. All Photographs subject to copyright